Manchester United move ahead of rivals in transfer chase for Barcelona star

Barcelona defender Jordi Alba is the subject of a three-way Premier League transfer war, and it is Manchester United who have emerged as favourites for his signature.

Arsenal and Chelsea are also interested in the Spaniard, who has reportedly been speaking with his international teammates at United and Chelsea regarding a possible move. These include Chelsea pair Pedro and Cesc Fabregas. Several United players, as yet unnamed, have been sought out by Alba for their opinions on life in England.

Jose Mourinho is seemingly making a left-back a priority target this summer, with Luke Shaw seemingly on his way out of Old Trafford.

Alba, 28, has been missing for some of Barcelona’s biggest matches this season, notably against PSG and last night’s Champions League opponents Juventus.

He has only made 16 starts this season, and is not keen to be sitting on the bench next season, with the 2018 World Cup looming.

Bookmakers Ladbrokes have made United favourites to be Alba’s next destination, at Evens. Chelsea are at 5/2, while the Gunners are quoted at 4/1.